Mercedes-Benz M-Class (2005 - 2011) ML350 CDi BlueEFFICIENCY (231bhp) Sport 5d Tip Auto (2010/60) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Perhaps too bright and chromey for a sensible old grey bloke. Looks quality all the way though.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Very nice car. Passengers love it. Chelsea tractor image in the agricultural world.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. Too many niggles. Excessive front tyre wear.

What are you likely to buy next?

Audi must be worth a try.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£32,000

When did you buy the car?

December 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Virtually showroom condition and low mileage at excellent price. Loaded with features and toys.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Previously had an X5 and replacement in latest model was too expensive. ML was good value.

What was the dealer like?

Very good. Main dealer also very good so far with warranty work and a factory recall for fuel filter.

What's it like to drive?

Gear changes are great in the main. There was quite a severe 2nd gear change but a software update (dealer's words) seems to have sorted that. Smooth and light like driving a firm sofa but almost as wide. Difficult to judge kerb distance. Bags of power when needed on motorways and easy to get carried away. Steering super light.

What's it like to park?

Sensors and camera make parking a doddle but since ignition switch replaced camera has been playing up (possibly loose connection - booked in at main dealers).

Have you had any problems with the car?

First motorway drive was incredible and still is unbelievably smooth and powerful. However the tracking goes out every 2000 miles or so and front tyre wear is a factor. The ignition switch needed replacing. The transmission or the engine has an intermittent stutter at around 1500 revs and there can be an annoying lag in response to throttle response.

What's most practical about your car?

Nice big doors but not as heavy for passengers as X5 not that their weight troubled me as the driver. Economy on long motorway trips can reach 40.5mpg if you're really gentle but locally 24 is nornal.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Loads of gizmos. Speed limiter perhaps favourite. Auto boot open close from key is handy sometimes. Voice input to satnav requires patience but can be helpful rather than button pressing.